Last Updated on May 28, 2025
From spotting towering giraffes to tracking lion paw prints, safaris are a thrilling adventure for the whole family. Here’s our pick of the best destinations for safari with kids.
Africa has a special place in my heart — it’s my favorite continent, full of natural wonders, amazing wildlife and beautiful people. Since my kid was born, we’ve brought her to Africa a few times and every single trip has amazing for the entire family. Seeing her eyes light up when she spotted animals in the wild was priceless.
But planning an African safari with kids isn’t quite as easy as you’d imagine. For safety reasons, most game reserves and national parks have age restrictions — 6 is usually the minimum age. Also, many major national parks in Africa are in malaria zones — and malaria pills aren’t advisable for young kids under 5-6 years old, so that leaves you with less choices.
I have been to over 25 African countries and gone on many wildlife safaris — not all of them are suitable for families, so I’ve narrowed them down to the best destinations for family safari.
Best Destinations for Safari with Kids
What’s the Best Age to Bring Kids on Safari?
There’s no distinct age but most parks and camps draw the line between 6 and 8 years. Many of them don’t accept kids below 6 for safety purpose. Kids under 6 tend to be hard to control (they have to keep quiet on game drives so as not to disturb the animals). Safaris typically involve early starts and long days in vehicles which can be problematic for extremely young children.
Those aged 8-12 are slightly more independent and can usually enjoy wildlife safaris more. Some safari lodges are flexible on age limit and will allow little kids as long as you’re on a private safari (just for the family). Before booking a safari, find out the particular minimum age to avoid these inconveniences.
It’s best to book your safari through a reputable operator so that they’re aware of your family’s needs. They’ll handle everything regarding permits, hotels, airport transfers, among others. Tour operators like Sundowner Holidays have tailor-made safari tours that are designed for families with little ones.
Best Countries for Safari with Kids
Africa is the cradle of wildlife — countries in East Africa and the southern part of the continent are particularly well known for their national parks and game reserves. I have been on many safari across the continent and have some recommendations here for families traveling with little ones.
1. South Africa
Home to the iconic Big Five — lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard — South Africa is one of the best safari destinations for kids. Its game reserves bustle with wildlife, making sightings much easier compared to other famous destinations. Also, there are several malaria-free regions like Madikwe Private Game Reserve, the Eastern Cape, and Waterberg.
Many lodges cater to families, featuring kid-focused programs, special menus, as well as educational programs to engage their minds. They run Junior Park Ranger programs which make them feel involved while imparting knowledge about nature. We stayed at Ekuthuleni Lodge in Welgevonden game reserve, which is a malaria-free area just three hours from Johannesburg, making it a very convenient stop on our 2-week South Africa itinerary.
If you’re looking for an all-encompassing tour, consider this South Africa family highlights that includes family-friendly hotels, activities and tailor-made wildlife safari custom designed for those traveling with kids.
Top Safari Parks in South Africa
- Kruger National Park; Ideal for spotting the Big Five
- Sabi Sands Game Reserve; Has Big Five and luxury accommodations
- MalaMala Private Game Reserve; Exclusive wildlife viewings and lodgings
- Addo Elephant National Park; Largest elephant populations in South Africa
- Madikwe Private Game Reserve; Significant elephant populations
Top Safari Resorts in South Africa
- Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
- Madikwe Safari Lodge
- Malewane Lodge
- Lion Sands Game Reserve
- Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
2. Botswana
As one of Africa’s safest countries, Botswana is a wonderful safari destination for families. The country hasn’t experienced any civil conflict or military coup since its independence in 1966.
Botswana has the stunning Okavango Delta, where you can enjoy the unique experience of watching hippos and crocodiles on a mokoro (wooden canoe). The elephant-filled plains of Chobe National Park are another highlight of any safari tour. Here, you’ll find the Big 5 (although Rhinos are exceptionally hard to spot). The safari lodges are also quite kid-friendly with some even rolling out a welcome mat for kids.
Many of them also offer spacious family tents if you want the full wild experience. There’s a huge variety of experiences here: from guided bush walks to thrilling boat rides across the Okavango and star-gazing in the Kalahari. The central and north-west regions of Botswana (including the Okavango) are low risk malaria areas, so carry bug spray for your trip.
Top Safari Parks in Botswana
- Moremi Wildlife Reserve; Floodplains, diverse wildlife, and canoe safaris
- Chobe National Park; Big Five and canoe safaris
- Linyanti Reserve; Stunning landscapes, game drives, and boat safaris
- Makgadikgadi Pans National Park; Vast salt pans, flamingos, and unique wildlife
- Central Kalahari Game Reserve; Open landscapes and plenty of wildlife
Top Safari Lodges in Botswana
- Savute Elephant Lodge
- Xigera Safari Lodge
- AndBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp
- Chobe Game Lodge
- Evolve Back Kalahari
3. Kenya
For Kaleya’s second safari, we chose to travel to Kenya. It’s one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five and it’s well known for the rich culture and tribal traditions. For me, Kenya’s Maasai Mara is hands down the one of the best safari parks in Africa. In this national park, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit a Maasai village and learn how they live.
However, most parts of its savannah plains are high-medium risk malaria areas and yellow fever vaccination is a requirement to enter the country. Check for info on malaria and yellow fever risk on the CDC website. Read my guide to traveling Kenya with kids.
Top Safari Parks in Kenya
- Maasai Mara National Reserve; Big Five and tribal interactions
- Amboseli National Park; Elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Samburu National Reserve; Rare species like Grevy’s Zebra and Somali Ostrich
- Nairobi National Park; Plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities
- Lake Nakuru National Park; Famous for flamingos and other birds
Top Safari Lodges in Kenya
- Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club
- Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
- Lake Nakuru Lodge
- Severin Safari Camp
- Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge
4. Tanzania
Tanzania is another excellent safari destination for families. This beautiful country is one of the safest and has lively parks known for their plentiful wildlife. Tanzania is also one of the best places to glimpse the famous Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard) roaming in the wild.
Iconic spots like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro crater teeming with wildlife, offer adventures like nowhere on the continent. If you time your visit right, you can get to glimpse the Great Migration. This annual natural phenomenon sees millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the plains into neighboring Kenya. It typically begins in December, with the calving season taking place in January and February in the Serengeti.
To end your trip with a bang, I recommend planning your trip to include a beach holiday on Zanzibar, an island off the Eastern coast of Tanzania. Like most countries in East Africa, Tanzania is at a high-medium risk for malaria. Check for info on malaria and yellow fever risk on the CDC website.
Top Safari Parks in Tanzania
- Serengeti National Park; Iconic Big Five and Great Migration
- Ngorongoro Crater; Densest concentration of wildlife in Africa
- Tarangire National Park; Elephant herds and baobab trees
- Ruaha National Park; Large concentrations of lions and other big cats like leopards
- Nyerere National Park; Africa’s largest national park with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities
Top Safari Lodges in Tanzania
- Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
- Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
- Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
- One Nature Nyaruswiga
- Tarangire Sopa Lodge
5. Namibia
Known for its unique landscapes, Namibia boasts stark terrain and out-of-this-world natural attractions. From the famous Namib Desert to the explosive Etosha National Park, there’s plenty to see in the country. Fun activities include sandboarding on the Sossusvlei dunes, exploring the large clay pan of Dead Vlei, and meeting the Himba tribe. Read my Namibia travel guide.
Most tour operators also offer kid-friendly activities like quad biking in the desert, whale watching, and kayaking. Some safari lodges offer guided night tours and glamping options, allowing your family to enjoy a starry adventure in the desert.
Much of the southern and central regions of Namibia, including the coast, Namib Desert, Windhoek are malaria-free. However, south of Mariental is considered a low-risk area while the northern part of the country, especially in Etosha National Park and Zambezi Region is medium risk.
Top Safari Parks in Namibia
- Etosha National Park; Large concentration of rhinos and floodlit waterhole for nighttime wildlife viewing
- Namib-Naukluft National Park; Pale clay pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei
- Fish River Canyon; Hiking paths
- Caprivi Strip; Herds of elephants and endangered wild dogs
- Skeleton Coast National Park; Shipwrecks and whale skeletons
Top Safari Lodges in Namibia
- Shipwreck Lodge
- Zannier Sonop
- Fish River Lodge
- Our Habitas Namibia
- Gmundner Lodge Namibia
6. Uganda
Dubbed the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a patchwork of serenity, beauty, and special wildlife adventures. This beautiful country in East Africa is one of only three countries in the world that offer the exclusive gorilla trekking. However, the starting age for gorilla trekking in East Africa is 15 years old.
There’s a lot more to Uganda than gorillas though. National parks like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable impress with their incredible diversity. Besides wildlife, there are fun adventurous activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping. Cultural encounters are also another highlight that makes this country a formidable family safari destination.
On my last visit, I got to spend some time with the Karamojong, a minority tribe near Kidepo Valley National Park. I visited their homesteads and observed their lives, learning about their unique customs and traditions. Malaria is a high risk throughout the country, so ensure to carry some bug repellent and antimalarial drugs for your trip.
Top Safari Parks in Uganda
- Queen Elizabeth National Park; Tree-climbing lions, chimpanzees, and numerous birds
- Murchison Falls National Park; Big Five and spectacular Murchison Falls
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; Gorilla trekking
- Lake Mburo National Park; Unique wildlife like elands, impalas, and others
- Kidepo Valley National Park; Plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and Karamojong encounters
Top Safari Lodges in Uganda
- Chimpundu Lodge
- Trackers Safari Lodge
- Wildwaters Lodge Uganda
- Mweya Safari Lodge
- Bwindi Forest Lodge
7. Zambia
Compared to all other destinations on our list, Zambia is the most underrated safari destination for kids. From the thunderous roar of the Victoria Falls to glamping under the stars, Zambia dazzles kids with unforgettable experiences. However, the real magic is in Zambia’s National parks like South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue.
Here, families can go on classic game drives, walking tours, and canoe safaris. Most safari tour operators offer a variety of activities from fishing to microlighting and white-water rafting, ensuring there’s something for every member of the family. Malaria is a high risk throughout the country, so ensure to carry some antimalarial drugs and bug spray for your trip.
Top Safari Parks in Zambia
- South Luangwa National Park; Variety of game viewing opportunities and walking safaris
- Lower Zambezi National Park; See hippos and crocodiles on canoe safaris
- Kafue National Park; Less crowded with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities
- Liuwa Plains National Park; Diverse wildlife and wildebeest migration
- Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park; Home to white rhinos and Victoria Falls
Top Safari Lodges in Zambia
- Mopani Safari Lodge
- Royal Zambezi Lodge
- Sindabezi Island Camp
- Zambezi Dusk
- Mukambi Safari Lodge
8. Zimbabwe
While it’s one of the quieter safari destinations, Zimbabwe is incredibly rewarding for families looking to revel in nature. The country’s national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools bustle with wildlife, including the famous Big Five. Zimbabwe is also home to Africa’s second-largest elephant population, meaning your chances of seeing a trunk or two are delightfully high.
Most resorts within national parks offer interactive experiences for kids such as “Poo Walks,” where they can track animals by their droppings. Beyond wildlife, the thunderous Victoria Falls offer a splashy and unforgettable encounter with the largest curtain of falling water.
The country also delivers enriching cultural outings such as the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe. Malaria is a high risk throughout Zimbabwe, so ensure to pack some antimalarial drugs and bug repellents.
Top Safari Parks in Zimbabwe
- Hwange National Park; Large elephant population and diverse wildlife
- Mana Pools National Park; Diverse wildlife viewing opportunities and canoe safaris
- Matobo National Park; Balancing rocks, ancient paintings, and large populations of eagles
- Gonarezhou National Park; Large elephant population
Top Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe
- Troutbeck Resort
- Matetsi Victoria Falls
- Singita Pamushana Lodge & Malilangwe House
- Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
- Shearwater’s Explorers Village
9. Rwanda
A small but gifted country, Rwanda punches above its weight class when it comes to African safaris. From the verdant and misty Virunga Mountains to the glassy Lake Kivu, Rwanda packs plenty of adventure for the whole family. If your kids are 15 and above, don’t miss the captivating thrill of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. But be prepared to pay a premium for this exclusive adventure (about $1500 per person).
Regardless, there’s still plenty of activities that cost much less but are quite endearing like boat rides on Lake Kivu. You can also glimpse gentler primates like the colobus monkeys in Nyungwe National Park.
If you’re eager to see the Big Five, head to the quiet Akagera National Park. Like most of the countries in East Africa, malaria is a high risk throughout Rwanda. So, ensure to pack some bug spray and antimalarial drugs for your trip.
Top Safari Parks in Rwanda
- Akagera National Park; Big Five, sport fishing, and birdwatching
- Volcanoes National Park; Gorilla trekking, Golden Monkey tracking, and hiking
- Nyungwe Forest National Park; Chimpanzee tracking and canopy walks
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park; Chimpanzees and bird watching
Top Safari Lodges in Rwanda
- One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
- Mantis Akagera Game Lodge
- Virunga Inn Resort & Spa
- Mantis Kivu Marina Bay Hotel
- Singita Kwitonda
10. Senegal
West Africa isn’t typically good for game drives, with the exception of Senegal. Bandia Wildlife Reserve, close to Dakar, is the best reserve in the country and it’s home to some big game. Senegal travel is easy and interesting as there are lots of colonial towns and cultural spots to visit in the country.
Senegal is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with parks like Djoudj serving as a colorful classroom in the wild. The national park is home to flamingos, pelicans, and countless other species that should capture your kid’s imagination. If you’re after intimate experiences, Niokolo-Koba National Park is the place to go.
Here, you’ll see wildlife in their natural habitat without worrying about crowds. Beyond wildlife, Senegal has some explosive beaches and unique cuisine. Kaleya couldn’t get enough of Yassa (Grilled chicken marinated in a lemon and onion sauce). Malaria is a high risk throughout the country, so carry bug repellent and antimalarial drugs for your trip.
Top Safari Parks in Senegal
- Réserve de Bandia; Diverse wildlife viewing opportunities
- Niokolo-Koba National Park; Exceptional avian diversity
- Djoudj Bird National Park; Bird species like pelicans and flamingos
- Fathala Wildlife Reserve; Unique wildlife like manatees, bush buck, roan antelope, etc
Top Safari Lodges in Senegal
- Fathala Wildlife Reserve
- Souimanga Lodge
- Mövenpick Resort Lamantin Saly
- Hotel Riu Baobab
- Ranch de Bandia
What to Pack for your Safari with Kids
Wildlife watching involves lots of driving so pack a few books on African wildlife and kids’ binoculars to keep them engaged. Another kids’ travel gear that can come in very useful on safari is a kid’s digital camera. My daughter was super excited to use hers on safari!
Game drives always take place in the early morning and evenings, which can get cold regardless of the time of the year. For instance, morning temperatures in Maasai Mara can dip as low as 12°C/54°F and day time temperatures reach around 25°C/77°F. Be sure to pack layers, and a warm jacket for the morning drives. Choose khaki t-shirts and beige cargo pants to blend in with the surroundings.
Another essential item to pack on a family safari is a first aid kit with basic medications like paracetamol, antihistamine for reactions to insect bites, medication for food poisoning, and rehydration pills. Here are more details on what to pack for safari.
Cost of a Safari with Kids
The cost of safari typically starts from a few hundred dollars to several thousands. It’s also worth noting prices for excursions and permits vary country to country. For instance, gorilla trekking permits in Uganda start from around $800 per person while Rwanda charges nearly double that ($1500).
A family safari can be expensive — prices for a 4-day camping trip starts from $450 per person. The average rate for a budget safari lodge is $100/night and midrange safari lodge costs $300. These rates cover all your meals and game drives.
National park entrance fees are another hefty cost. They are charged per day and per person (which makes it very expensive!). Most safari tours don’t include these fees and you’ll also need to pay for kids above 3.
Practical Tips for Going on Safari with Kids
- If it’s your first time on the African continent, manage your expectations and prepare your kids for that too. Infrastructure in most of the African countries might not be what they’re used to. For instance, hole-in-the-ground toilets and insects in the tents could be damning experiences for kids.
- Many curio shops along the highways have sparkling clean toilets (that’s how they try to draw in the tourists), and drivers tend to bring you here. You’re not obliged to buy anything if you don’t want to.
- You will encounter many tourist touts when traveling in many of these countries and some can be pushy. Just be polite and say no with a smile. Also, bargaining is part of their daily life, they expect you to bargain.
- Lastly, roads in Africa are not the best. Prepare your kids for bumpy rides and long, dusty drives. Also bring dramamine for motion sickness.
- Don’t pack too much into your itinerary as kids always require more down time. Slow down your pace and spend more time at each location.
Enjoy Your Safari with Kids!
Safari with kids promises adventure, wildlife, and so much more. I hope this guide on family safari destinations helps you prepare for an adventure of a lifetime. I have tried to include all the vital and practical tips for when going for a safari with kids. Be sure to ask me any questions you may have.
Here are other articles I’ve written about safaris and Africa:
- Kenya with kids
- Best Safari Parks in Africa
- A family Safari in South Africa
- Best Things to Do in Gambia
- What to Pack for a Safari
- Complete Guide to African Safari with Kids
- Our Self-drive Safari in South Africa
- Wildlife Safari on Chobe River
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.
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